Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
58.56a |
Object Name |
Microscope |
Title |
Compound Microscope |
Artist |
Unknown |
Place of Origin |
England |
Date |
after 1776 |
Description |
Received as a set with optical set (58.56b). Additional small box with 7 extra pieces. Compound microscope, 14 1/2" high; unmarked. |
Label |
This compound microscope was likely purchased and donated to the APS as part of an optical set (58.56b). Beginning in the 1740s, London instrument-makers produced cases of optical instruments containing simple, compound, and solar microscopes, along with their accessories. John Cuff introduced the basic form of this case of instruments; well-known London instrument makers Benjamin Martin and George Adams sold similar sets. This cabinet, which is unsigned, is attributed to George Adams, instrument maker to King George III. Adams introduced the innovation of the folding foot for the microscope, which is seen in this example. Merchant and philanthropist Samuel Vaughan donated a number of scientific instruments to the Society. According to APS records, Vaughan presented this optical set, including a single, double, and solar microscope, in a “Shagreen” (untanned leather) case. At present, the compound microscope does not fit in the case, but the style of the microscope suggests that it is part of a unit belonging to the donation. |
Material |
Brass and glass |
Dimensions |
H-14.5 W-6.5 D-6.5 inches |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society. Gift of Samuel Vaughan, 1784. |
Search Terms |
18th century eighteenth century optics science scientific instrument |